Amtrak has marked a major milestone in North American passenger rail today as it introduces US preclearance for customers travelling from Vancouver, B.C. on Amtrak Cascades.
The new experience at Pacific Central Station aims to crate a more streamlined experience for those travelling into the United States.
With the process having long been available at select airports, Pacific Central Station will now officially become the first rail station in North America to offer such a capability.
Amtrak President Roger Harris said:This is a historic moment for passenger rail in North America.
Launching the continent’s first rail preclearance facility reflects what’s possible when strong partners come together with a shared focus on the customer experience. This improvement makes cross-border travel faster, easier, and more seamless from the moment passengers arrive at the station.
Delivered in collaboration with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), VIA Rail, and numerous agencies in both countries including US Customs and Border Protection, the Canada Border Services Agency, Transport Canada, and Public Safety Canada; the preclearance process seeks to consolidate & simplify inspection, security and customs procedures into a single step prior to departure.
Trains leaving Vancouver will proceed directly into the United States without stopping for en route border screening, allowing for faster journeys and enhanced operational efficiency.
In order to support preclearance procedures, targeted upgrades were carried out within the station to accommodate enhanced customs and security operations.
The launch also aligns with growing international travel demand ahead of major global sporting events in the Pacific Northwest.
